Rip currents account for 80% of rescues performed by beach lifeguards

Rip currents account for 80%
of rescues performed by surf
beach lifeguards.
What are rip currents?
◆ Rip currents are channelized currents of
water fl owing away from shore at surf
beaches.
◆ Rip currents typically form at breaks in
sandbars, and also near structures such
as jetties and piers.
◆ Rip currents are quite common and can
be found on many surf beaches every
day, including Great Lakes beaches.
Why are rip currents dangerous?
◆ Rip currents pull people away
from shore.
◆ Rip current speeds can vary from
moment to moment and can quickly
increase to become dangerous to
anyone entering the surf.
◆ Rip currents can sweep even the
strongest swimmer out to sea.

for more information go to http://www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov/signs/rip_brochure_final.pdf